The MTV Video Music Awards, also referred to as, the VMA's, were established at the end of the summer of 1984, by MTV, to celebrate the top music videos of the year. Originally beginning as an alternative to the Grammy Award Ceremony, the MTV Video Music Awards, have become a respected pop-culture award ceremony in its own right, and have often been called the "Oscars for youth". An acknowledgment of the awards ceremony's ability to draw millions of youth from kids to young-adults each year. MTV Video Music Awards have since become a coveted award, they are presented annually, and broadcasted live on MTV.
Awards and nominations
The MTV Video Music Awards were established in 1984 by MTV to celebrate the top music videos of the year. In 2009, Gaga tied with Beyoncé for most nominations with 9 and won 3 awards tying with Green Day and Beyoncé. For 2010, she was nominated for 13 awards for her songs "Bad Romance" and "Telephone", breaking the record for most nominations ever in a single year and also became the first female solo artist to ever receive two nominations for 'Video of the Year'. She also received another 5 nominations for her collaboration with Beyoncé in "Video Phone". In 2011, Lady Gaga recieved two nominations for "Born This Way" and "Judas", each. Altogether, Lady Gaga has been nominated for 38 Video Music Awards, and has thus far won 18.
2009 MTV Video Music Awards
Award show
The 2009 MTV Video Music Awards took place on September 13, 2009, at Radio City Music Hall in NYC, honoring the Best Music Videos from June 19, 2008, to June 29, 2009. Comedian Russell Brand hosted the event for the second time in a row. The awards were held a few months after Michael Jackson died. The VMA's dedicated the night to Jackson with a retro-music video montage as a tribute. Madonna opened the show with a speech about Jackson. Janet Jackson made an appearance at the VMA's to pay musical tribute to her late brother and honor his career. For the finale of the show, they showed the trailer of Michael Jackson's This Is It.
Lady Gaga had a total of 9 nominations that night, making her the leading nominee, along with Beyoncé. Her nominations were "Video of the Year", "Best Pop Video", "Best Female Video", and "Best New Artist" for "Poker Face", and "Best Art Direction", "Best Special Effects", "Best Direction", "Best Editing", and "Best Cinematography" for "Paparazzi". The creative direction for the night was done by Matt Williams, choreography by Laurieann Gibson, and styling by Nicola Formichetti. Her dancers included Asiel Hardison, Sloan-Taylor Rabinor, Ian McKenzie, Mark Kanemura and David Lei Brandt, among others.
Red carpet
Lady Gaga arrived on the red carpet wearing a black dress, neck brace, top hat, and a Phantom of the Opera-esque mask. Her date was Kermit the Frog. Prior to entering the event, she was interviewed by Sway from MTV.
- Interview
Sway: What up Tim? I'm here with the woman who is definitely going to have a big night, and maybe big is to small of a word for you Lady Gaga. And congratulation on your nominations.
Lady Gaga: Thank you, Sway.
Sway: Wow. Does it even matter that both you and Beyoncé both got 9? Or is it just like what P!nk said, it's just ladies night?
Lady Gaga: You know what, it's totally ladies night and I'm just happy to be here. And I'm excited for everyone to win.
Sway: Absolutely. And this is...?
Kermit: Lady Gaga, you forgot your credentials.
Lady Gaga: Ah, thanks babe.
Kermit: I was afraid they might not recognize you when you try to get in.
Lady Gaga: Thanks babe.
Sway: Kermit the Frog.
Kermit: Oh, hi there.
Sway: Wow, you guys are kissing again. You are quite a ladies frog, Kermit.
Kermit: Oh, well, yeah.
Lady Gaga: He's been a really good date. I mean it's our first date, and we've been eying each other for some time, but I'm pretty excited.
Sway: What about Miss Piggy? I thought Miss Piggy was your girl.
Kermit: You know, Piggy and I have been together for a long time, but Gaga and I, we're just friends. Yeah, we're just friends.
Lady Gaga: You're so handsome tonight, Kermit.
Kermit: Aw, thanks. You look lovely yourself.
Lady Gaga: Miss Piggy has been sending me some pretty funny text messages though.
Sway: Has she really? I know she's a jealous woman.
Kermit: Well, what did she say?
Lady Gaga: Well, she was wondering if it was going to be another late night.
Sway: Wow.
Kermit: Oh, good grief.
Sway: Kermit, come back to me. Tell me what you think of what Lady Gaga is wearing.
Kermit: I think she looks lovely. Hey, listen. I'm just happy it's not made out of people I know.
Sway: Okay.
Kermit: Yeah.
Sway: Right. Okay.
Lady Gaga: Well don't you like his McQueen tux tonight?
Sway: Well, he looks pretty good.
Lady Gaga: You look fabulous Kermit.
Kermit: I'm not really used to wearing a tux.
Lady Gaga: My goodness, I'm so nervous around him.
Sway: You guys look like a good couple. What about what you're wearing. Describe this. What inspired it?
Lady Gaga: Well, I'm wearing Jean-Paul Gaultier. And this is a hat by a very young designer, as well as this neck brace. It's a Keko of London.And I'm here supporting my friends tonight, and we're just really happy to be here. We love MTV. And I'm really happy to be here with my date, Kermit.
Sway: Wow.
Kermit: Thank you. It's really an honor, being here with you.
Lady Gaga: You too, Kermit.
Sway: Well, you know, I don't want to hold you two up. I know you got a big night, a big performance on stage tonight.
Lady gaga: Thank you.
Sway: And congratulations on all of your success.
Lady Gaga: Thank you. I'm excited Sway. Thank you very much. Bye.
- Dress by Jean Paul Gaultier, feather neck brace and a ring by Keko Hainswheeler, mask and a ring by Carol Wiseman for House of Blueeyes, and a hat by Le Tour de Force.
- Hair by Peter Savic, and makeup by Kabuki.
Performance
Pete Wentz and Gabe Saporta introduced Lady Gaga to the crowd before she performed. She wore the Haus of Gaga Bleeding Bodysuit and mask by Keko Hainswheeler. Lady Gaga has often remarked that this performance was inspired by a Frida Kahlo self-portrait, the death of Princess Diana, and the public's fascination with the demise of the celebrity.
The backdrop featured a few European artworks:
Apotheosis of the Dutch East India Company (Allegory of the Amsterdam Chamber of Commerce of the VOC) by Nikolaas Verkolje (1702) on the left.
Cherubs playing with clothes by as-yet unidentified artist in the middle.
Patrons of the Orphanage - Regents of the Amsterdam Orphanage by Jacob Backer (1934) on the right.
With two 3D reproduction of the statue of Hebe by Bertel Thorwaldsen (1806) on each side of the room.
- Setlist
- Intro/"Poker Face"
- "Paparazzi" (VMA Version)
- Bodysuit by Haus of Gaga, mask by Keko Hainswheeler, and boots by Pleaser.
Best New Artist
Lady Gaga was presented the award for 'Best New Artist' by Eminem and Tracy Morgan. Her red lace outfit was meant to be a continuation of her performance, with the red lace meant to be symbolic for the eternal martyrdom of fame.
Acceptance:
- "It's my first fucking moon man. I just wanna to say thank you to my family and Troy Carter and Vincent Herbert. I want to thank Jimmy Iovine and Don Lawrence for being here with me tonight. Can you hold this for one second? I love you guys. This is for my fucking fans. You're the best fans in the world and I love you. And it's for God, and for the gays."
Backstage and audience
Lady Gaga was seen backstage and in the audience throughout the show. She sat behind Beyoncé, next to her manager Troy Carter, and in front of Perez Hilton. She posed bacstage with Kanye West and Amber Rose. After accepting the award for Best New Artist, she wore a Jean Paul Gaultier gown and headpiece by Philip Treacy.
- Dress by Jean Paul Gaultier, headpiece by Philip Treacy, and pumps by Christian Louboutin.
Press room
Lady Gaga posed in the press room after the awards ceremony with her moonman.
- Dress by Serkan Cura Couture for Jean Paul Gaultier and shoes by Viktor & Rolf.
After Party
Lady Gaga attended a VMA afterparty at Avenue with Lady Starlight, Mark Kanemura, Asiel Hardison, and Perez Hilton.
- Dress by Jean Paul Gaultier, headdress by Alex Noble, choker by Patricia Field.
2010 MTV Video Music Awards
Award show
The 2010 MTV Video Music Awards took place on September 12, 2010, at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, honoring the Best Music Videos from the previous year. Chelsea Handler hosted the event, the first woman in sixteen years—since the 1994 MTV Video Music Awards—to do so.
On August 3, 2010, the nominations were released and raised headlines all over the world as Gaga has been nominated for a record breaking 13 awards, 18 including "Video Phone". She also broke another record by being the first female to have 2 different videos in the same category, with "Bad Romance" and "Telephone" for "Video of the Year". Her other nominations were "Best Collaboration" for Telephone and Video Phone, "Best Choreography" for Bad Romance, Telephone, and Video Phone, "Best Female Video", "Best Pop Video" and "Best Art Direction" for Bad Romance and Video Phone, and "Best Dance Video", "Best Cinematography", "Best Direction", "Best Editing", and "Best Special Effects" for Bad Romance. She won eight of these ("Video of the Year", "Best Choreography", "Best Pop Video", "Best Dance Video", "Best Female Video", "Best Direction", and "Best Editing" for Bad Romance, "Best Collaboration" for Telephone), a record for most female wins in single night.
Although she was the major nominee of the night, she did not perform because she was too busy with The Monster Ball Tour to prepare a performance. Instead, she spent the night making fashion statements in support of the repeal for Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Her styling was done by Nicola Formichetti.
White carpet
Lady Gaga joined the cast of the VMA lineup in 2010, with an entourage consisting of former soldiers discharged from service, due to "Don't Ask, Don't Tell", a policy of the United States' military. This policy forbids gay and lesbian soldiers from being open about their sexuality. The guests included Katie Miller, David Hall, Stacy Vasquez, and Mike Almy. After the show, an e-mail was sent out to those who had signed up through her official website, and on the e-mail, it mentioned that Gaga is "asking fans to join her and SLDN (Servicemembers Legal Defense Network) in helping repeal the discriminatory policy. Since the inception of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" in 1994, SLDN has been legally defending and fighting for the rights of the courageous service members unfairly discharged."
While on the white carpet, she won the awards for "Best Dance Video", and "Best Collaboration" with "Bad Romance" and "Telephone", respectively.
- Interview
Sway: Ladies and gentlemen, this is what the VMAs are all about. There are a lot of celebrated superstars tonight, but probably none as the lady that's standing next to me right here. With a record breaking 13 nominations in one day, Lady Gaga.
Lady Gaga: Hi Sway.
Sway: nice to see you.
Lady Gaga: You too. You too. Hi everybody.
Sway: Alright. You look great, but before we get started I got to present you with something.
Lady Gaga: Uh oh.
Sway: Alright, you have the first VMAs, the first two moon men of the night. Congratulations.
Lady Gaga: Thank you. Oh my gosh. Which awards?
Sway: For Best Dance Video, for Bad Romance and Best Collaboration for Telephone with Beyonce.
Lady Gaga: Okay, thank you. We did it, Hunny B.
Sway: Y'all did it. Great video. We got to talk about your outfit. I remember last year you performed, and you ripped the stage up. But you also performed in your seat, because you have so many spectacular wardrobe changes. How many outfits did you bring tonight?
Lady Gaga: You just have to wait to find out. I don't want to ruin the surprises. But this is Alexander McQueen from his last collection.
Sway: From his last collection? Well it looks great. Now one thing I think people admire most about you, including myself, is you don't just use your celebrity to sell music. You also stand up for causes and bring awareness to things that are important to you. Tell me about these people we have on the stage today.
Lady Gaga: I'm here for a very important cause today. these are all my friends, and they are with SLDN.org, which is an organization that was founded in 1993 in reaction to the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policies. And there stories are really inspiring and there's so much that we can do right now. These soldiers that are with me today have all been discharged from the air force or the army, or opted to leave on their own. This is Katie, she left from West Point. there stories are truly inspiring and in my opinion, as so many young people believe all over the world, Don't Ask, Don't Tell is wrong, it's sick, it's immoral. And my friend here, David, actually... tell him your story.
David: I served five years in the air force, then I was dish=charged after being outed by a fellow cadet. Are friend Mike there was actually discharged while in Iraq.
Lady Gaga: Mike was serving in Iraq, and he was discharged as well. And my friend, Stacy here, was discharged after 12 years in the army. She served her country. And the most inspiring thing about having them here with me today is that we can spread the message of what the organization is all about, because we really need to get Reed to set a date in the Senate to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
Sway: This is why people love you. I wanna applaud everybody who served our military. Thank you for your service.
Stacy: Thank you.
Sway: And thank you for your time. You look great tonight.
Lady Gaga: Thank you. And no one person is more valuable than another person.
Sway: Absolutely. And welcome to the VMAs you guys. Go inside and enjoy yourself. Great performances. Eminem will be on the stage. Kanye West will be on the stage. I'm sure you guys will have a great time, okay.
Lady Gaga: Thank you, Sway.
Sway: And Lady Gaga, congratulations.
Lady Gaga: Thank you.
Sway: And back to you guys on the white carpet.
- Custom gown and boots by Alexander McQueen, custom bustle skirt by Alex Noble, vintage unsigned ring, and custom headpiece by Perry Meek..
- Hair by Sam McKnight, and makeup by Billy B.
Best Female Video
Lady Gaga was presented the award for 'Best Female Video' for "Bad Romance" by Ellen DeGeneres. She wore the same outfit as on the white carpet.
Acceptance:
- "Thank you so much I love my fans so much. All my Little Monsters watching, thank you. It's such a dream come true to be here tonight. And tonight, Little Monsters, we're the cool kids at the party. So, thank you so much to everyone and thank you to the soldiers, the discharged soldiers that came with me tonight. I love you. Thank you to Alexander McQueen for sending me all the beautiful clothes for my video. And thank you to Francis Lawrence, Laurieann Gibson, RedOne for making this amazing record with me. And thank you to my amazing friends. You fucking rock over there. You look amazing. And thank you to all the gays for remaking this video, over and over again."
Best Pop Video
Lady Gaga was presented the award for Best Pop Video for "Bad Romance" by Chris Colfer, Jane Lynch, Cory Monteith and Amber Riley.
Acceptance:
- "Yeah! I didn't really think through all the wins, so this outfit is to heavy to walk in. I apologize if I move a little slow this evening. Fashion road kill, that's okay. Thank you so much for voting for this video, and thank you again to all my fans. Thank you to Nicole Ehlrich, and Kathy at the label. And thank you to MTV for playing my video, even though they asked me to cut so much out. And I refuse, because we were Born This Way, baby. I love you, I love you. God bless pop music and god bless MTV."
- Custom bustier, skirt and headpiece by Armani Privé, and boots by Noritaka Tatehana.
Press room
Video of the Year
Lady Gaga was presented the award for Video of the Year for "Bad Romance" by Cher.
Acceptance:
- I never thought I would be asking Cher to hold my meat purse. Thank you so much. I was so nervous for tonight, that I would let my fans down. I love you so much. thank you to my family and Troy and Vince and Jimmy Iovine. And I promised if I won this tonight, I would announce the name of my new record. It's called Born this Way.
- I'm beautiful in my way, 'cause God makes no mistakes. I'm on the right track. Baby, I was Born This Way.
- Good night.
- Custom dress, headpiece and clutch (with a brooch by Rodrigo Otazu) by Franc Fernandez, corset by Kiki de Montparnasse and boots by Pleaser customized by Franc Fernandez, choker and bracelet with Swarovski crystals by Giuseppe Zanotti, vintage unsigned bracelet from New York Vintage, ring by a-morir, and custom ring with Swarovski crystals by The Dragon Lady.
Backstage and audience
Lady Gaga, being the night's biggest honoree, sat in the front row. She sat in front of Drake and was seen talking to Jared Leto. her guests that were with her in the audience during the show varied from Lady Starlight, Justin Trantar, Katie Miller, David Hall, Stacy Vasquez, Mike Almy, RedOne, Troy Carter, Vincent Herbert, Perez Hilton and Laurieann Gibson.
Leaving MTV VMA's
After Party
Leaving MTV Afterparty
- Custom headpiece by Philip Treacy.
2011 MTV Video Music Awards Promotions
Leading up to the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, Lady Gaga created several promotional commercials. The fashion direction for the commericals were done by Nicola Formichetti and styling by Brandon Maxwell.
Jazz Commercial
The first three commercials release come from one recording where Lady Gaga is seen rehearsing Yoü and I with a Jazz band, during which she removes her jacket and bra. She also discusses what art means to her.
“ | I really believe that art is this huge lie. This big giant lie. We sing it, and we dance it, and we dress it everyday. And me and my friends all hope that someday we tell it enough that it becomes true. | ” |
—Lady Gaga on her inspiration |
- Suit by Salvatore Ferragamo, sunglasses by General, a ring by China Town, and shoes by Underground.
- Hair by Frederic Aspiras. Makeup by Tara Savelo. Nails by Aya Fukuda.
It's been a long time since I came around
Been a long time but I'm back in town
And this time I'm not leaving without yoü
Yoü taste like whiskey when yoü kiss me, awe
I'd give anything again to be your baby doll
And this time I'm not leaving without yoü
Yoü said sit back down where yoü belong
In the corner of my bar with your high heels on
Sit back down on the couch where we
Made love the first time and yoü said to me there's
Something
Something about this place
Something 'bout lonely nights
And my lipstick on your face
Something
Something about my cool Nebraska guy
Oh, there's something about
Baby, yoü and I
It's been two years since I let yoü go
I couldn't listen to a joke NO rock and roll
Muscle cars drove a truck right through my heart
On my birthday yoü sang me "Your Young Heart Of Gold"
With a guitar humming baby, and I haven't no clothes
This time I'm not leaving without yoü
Yoü said sit back down where yoü belong
In the corner of my bar with your high heels on
Sit back down on the couch where we
Made love baby, the first time and yoü said to me MTV
Something
Something about this place
Something 'bout lonely nights
And my lipstick on your face
Something
Something about my cool Nebraska guy
Oh baby, something about
Baby, yoü and I
Yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Oh, we got a whole lot of money but we still pay rent
'Cause yoü can't buy a house in Heaven
There's only three men that I'mma serve my whole life
It's my daddy and Nebraska and Jesus Christ, there's
Something
Something about the chase (six old fucking years)
I'm a New York woman born to run yoü down
Still want my lipstick all over your face
Something
Something about my cool Nebraska guy
Oh baby, something about
Baby, yoü and I
Yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü and I, yah yah
Yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
Yoü yoü and I
It's been a long time since I came around
Been a long time but I'm back in town
And this time I'm not leaving without yoü
Muse Factory
This is the final commercial released for the MTV Video Music Awards featuring Lady Gaga as the main subject. It was premiered on August 18, 2011 during an episode of the Jersey Shore. this commercial features a remix of "Government Hooker" and "Heavy Metal Lover". Four scenes were recorded for this promotion. The video begins with a puddle of blood with "GAGA" being written in it, and Lady Gaga wearing fishnets, a Salvatore Ferragamo shirt, and Emmanuelle Khanh sunglasses courtesy of Elton John. She is seen with a lightning bolt shadow over her face, referencing the Lightning Eye make-up she wore during the promotion of "Just Dance", and throwing away cards, referencing a scene in the music video for "Poker Face". She leaves the room to change into a Norma Kamali bodysuit, and invites the viewers into her "Muse Factory". Inside the "Muse Factory" are a table with the message, "Born This Way in the USA", the Semi Precious Weapons, the Dirty Pearls, Lady Starlight, and Darian Darling. During this scene, Lady Gaga wears a Stephane Rolland dress, Pleaser boots, and Stephen Jones mask. Lady Gaga starts dancing and crawling on the table. Intercut are scenes of all the attendees toasting and drinking. Lady Gaga is scene wearing Tripp NYC bustier, Guns and Roses bandana, and black lingerie from Victoria's Secret.
- Shirt by Salvatore Ferragamo, sunglasses by Emmanuelle Khanh.
- Bodysuit by Norma Kamali.
- Dress by Stephane Rolland, boots by Pleaser, mask by Stephen Jones.
- Bustier by Tripp NYC, panties by Victoria's Secret, stockings by Agent Provocateur, heels by Pleaser, sunglasses by Lafont.
- Hair by Frederic Aspiras. Makeup by Tara Savelo. Nails by Aya Fukuda
- Photos by Eric Johnson
2011 MTV Video Music Awards
Pre-party
The night before the awards, Lady Gaga attended a pre-party at the ATOM Factory.
- Outfit by Alexandre Vauthier, platforms by Noritaka Tatehana, a necklace by Erickson Beamon, and sunglasses by Emmanuelle Khanh.
Award show
The 2011 MTV Video Music Awards took place on August 28, 2011. at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, honoring the best music videos from the previous year. On July 20, 2011, the nominees were announced. Katy Perry received the most nominations this year at ten, followed by Adele, and Kanye West, who are both tied at seven.
Lady Gaga had four nominations this year, with "Best Female Video" and "Best Video with a Message" being won by "Born This Way," and with "Judas" being nominated for "Best Art Direction" and "Best Choreography." Jo Calderone appeared at the VMA's in place of Gaga. Lady Gaga's reasons for doing so were explained in more detail in her V magazine column. Her creative direction and choreography were done by Laurieann Gibson, and styling by Nicola Formichetti.
Arrival
Jo Calderone skipped the black carpet and entered the Nokia Theatre from a back entrance.
Performance
Jo Calderone appeared on stage to explain why Lady Gaga didn't show up, talked about their relationship and its shortcomings, and then continued to perform "Yoü and I on the piano, and then with Brian May and a troupe of dancers.
- "Hey, my name is Jo... Calderone and I was an asshole. Gaga, yeah her, Lady Gaga, she left me. She said it always starts out good, and then the guys, meaning me, I'm one of the guys, we get crazy. I did, I got crazy, but she's fucking crazy too, right?! I mean, she's fucking crazy! For example, she gets out of the bed, puts on the heels, she goes into the bathroom, I hear the water go on, she comes out of the bathroom dripping wet, she still got the heels on. And what's with the hair? At first it was sexy but now I'm just confused. She said I'm just like the last one. I'm not like the last one! And I think it's great, you know, I think it's really fucking great that she's such a star. A big, beautiful star in the sky. But how am I supposed to shine?! I mean, I think I'd be okay with it, you know, if I felt like she was really being herself with me. And maybe she is, I'm starting to think that's who she is, you know, maybe that's just who she is. 'Cause when she gets on that stage she holds nothing back, that spotlight, that big, round, deep spotlight follows her wherever she goes, sometimes I think it's follows her home. I know it does. I gotta get in there. When she cums, it's like she covers her face, 'cause she doesn't want me to see, like she can't stand to have one honest moment when nobody's watching. I want her to be real. But she said "Jo, I'm not real. I'm theater, and You and I, this is just rehearsal". I gotta get in there."
- Setlist
- Jo Calderone wears a suit jacket by Dior Homme, trousers by Brooks Brothers, underwear by Emporio Armani, a t-shirt by Uniqlo, and custom boots by Dr. Martens.
Britney Spears tribute
Jo Calderone reappeared on stage to introduce the Britney Spears Tribute, to give Britney Spears the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, and to introduce Beyoncé Knowles' performance with Britney Spears.
- "When you're a struggling artist, literally starving for your dream, you got to live off inspiration. When I used to perform at open mic nights for free, at small clubs in New York, one of my biggest inspirations was Britney Spears. Britney taught me how to be fearless, she taught us all how to be fearless. She's a pop music legend, and the industry would not be the same without her. I used to hang posters of her on my wall and touch myself when I was laying in bed. Throughout the years, Britney has given us some of the most iconic music videos and stage shows of our time. And that's why tonight, MTV and myself are honoring Britney and her influence on music videos and dance with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. Ladies, take it away!"
Jo Calderone: Everybody stand the fuck up! Ladies and gentlemen, the 2011 recipient of the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, the incomparable, Miss Britney Spears!
Britney Spears: I've done that already.
Jo Calderone: I don't want Gaga to be pissed, you know. So we're just a good, old fashion, American man, and a good, old fashioned, American girl.
Britney Spears: Thank you. This award means so much to me, especially on the night before Michael Jackson's birthday. he had such a huge influence on me, Gaga, and our next performer, Beyoncé. Beyoncé and i started out at the same time, and just like all of her fans, I fell in love with her the first time I saw her. From singing, to dancing, to acting, she can do it all. She is a triple threat, and one of the most talented people I have ever seen.
Jo Calderone: I've had the privileged of being around her gift, and knowing what kind of incredible artist and kind woman she is. Beyoncé is a beautiful soul. There is nobody like Beyoncé.
Britney Spears: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome, Beyoncé.
Jo Calderone: Yeah!
- Jo Calderone wears a suit jacket and suit trousers by Versace, a t-shirt by Uniqlo, underwear by Emporio Armani, and custom boots by Dr. Martens.
Best Female Video
Lady Gaga won the award for Best Female Video for "Born This Way". The award was presented by Cloris Leachman and the female cast from Jersey Shore (Sammi, Snooki, Deena and JWoww) and was accepted by Jo Calderone on behalf of Lady Gaga.
- "I'm so, so happy to accept the award tonight, 'cause Gaga is not here, for best female video. Thank you so much to Nick Knight. And I know that, if she were here tonight, she would want me to thank her Little Monsters. You know, earlier tonight they told me I got best video with a message. But you know what? There's so many great artists in this room, sitting over there, in that front row, some performed her tonight, every video they got has a fucking message. I feel so blessed to be here. And it's true; It doesn't matter who you are, gay, straight, bi, lesbian, transgender, you were born this way. God bless you MTV. Yeah!"
Backstage and audience
Jo Calderone sat in the front row, next to Britney Spear and Beyoncé. He was seen in the audience with Brian May, Vincent Herbert , Adele, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Kelly Rowland, Tony Bennett, Dave Grohl, and Beyoncé. Jo Calderone was seen backstage with Britney Spears, the female cast from Jersey Shore (Sammi, Snooki, Deena and JWoww), Katy Perry, and Cloris Leachman. Jo also visited Beyoncé in her dressing room to congratulate her on her pregnancy. Jo Calderone, Lady Gaga's male alter-ego, was also seen using the men's room.
Rob Markman: You know last year, you know, Lady Gaga announced Born This Way at the VMAs. This year, she's winning, even though she's not here. What do you think that award means to her?
Jo Calderone:You know, I think this award means more to her than anything that she's ever received. I mean, she was texting me after the award; after I picked it up for her, and she was like, you know, more to me because Born This Way is about the fans, and the fans are more important than anything I do. More important than breathing.
Rob Markman: Well Jo, I know you and Gaga are going through a rough time, but you're able to be here to celebrate tonight. Jo Calderone: Yeah, yeah. I'm hoping she will take me back, you know.
Rob Markman: What's the plan? When you go home, you know you got these two moon men to hand over, maybe some roses too? What's the plan? What are you bringing?
Jo Calderone: I'm hoping she's gonna wanna roll around with me again in the bed. You know what I'm saying?
Rob Markman: Once you guys do get back together, because MTV is hopeful for that, we know that, we hear there may be a little collaboration between y'all. Do you have a musical side, Jo? And will you and Gaga be expressing that?
Jo Calderone: Well, tohinght, you know, I got to show a little bit of what I can do. But you know, I'm just an amateur. You know, I just don't really do this, but I tried to show her that I could work hard to be with her, and I hope she likes that though.
Rob Markman: She's gonna take you back. We're rooting for you.
Jo Calderone: yeah, I hope so. Thanks man.
Rob Markman: Congratulations.
Jo Calderone: Thank you. I love my two moon men. Thank you MTV and thank you. I'm gonna give these to her.
Press room
Jo Calderone posed in the press room with his moonmen, and answered some questions.
Interviewer 1: Does Jo tonight allow you to express yourself? What are you able to convey tonight as Jo that you couldn't as Gaga?
Jo Calderone: I don't understand the question.
Interviewer 1: Are you able to express yourself more as Jo tonight ? Are you able to convey the message of Gaga? Just wondering that.
Jo Calderone: She's just very fucking pissed at me right now. She said, "Fuck you. If you really love me, you'll go instead of me. And you'll get in that spotlight." And I did.
Latifah: Hey Jo, it's Latifah from AOL music. I wanted to know, after you...
Jo Calderone: It's fucking bright.
Latifah: After you told Britney Spears about your fantasies about her, is there any chance you guys might be getting together?
Jo Calderone: I don't. Well, maybe if she wants to. She's fucking hot. I don't know. You know what, Gaga is my girl, but, you know, but Britney is fucking, you know, she's fucking Britney Spears. Didn't you jerk off to Britney Spears when you were a kid?
Bryan Alexander: Bryan Alexander, Bryan Alexander from USA Today. Who is Jo, and how long will Jo be with us?
Jo Calderone: I'm gonna be here about five more minutes. I'm from New Jersey. My family is from Palermo, Sicily. And I'm not a singer or a model or an actor or anything. I'm just a guy.
Man in audience: A Guido!
Jo Calderone: No, I'm not a fucking Guido. What are you fucking? You don't like Italians? the fucks the matter with you? I'm just a guy, you know. I just wanted to show my girl how much I love her. That's all.
2013 MTV Video Music Awards
Award show
The 2013 MTV Video Music Awards will be held on August 25, 2013, at at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York City, honoring the best music videos from the previous year. This will mark the 30th installment of this award show.
On July 25, MTV announced that Lady Gaga will return with the world premiere performance of her first single "Applause" from ARTPOP at this years MTV Video Music Awards.
Red Carpet
- Dress by Prabal Gurung, shoes by Azzedine Alaïa, and sunglasses by Tom Ford.
Performance
- Setlist
- Intro
- "Applause"
I can feel my heart,
Beating in your hands,
My aura and yours,
Meeting in this dance.
Pull the trigger, I'm
Ready,
It's Show Time!
- Dress by Mia Gyzander Costumes, shoes by Pleaser customized by A-Morir, and a canvas headpiece by Haus of Gaga.
- Catsuit by In-House Atelier customized by Haus of Gaga.
- Custom jacket and a skirt by Perry Meek for Haus of Gaga.
- Seashell bra and panty by Haus of Gaga.
Audience
Backstage
After Party
- Skirt by Alexandre Herchcovitch and sunglasses by Grey Ant.
2020 MTV Video Music Awards
Award show
The 2020 MTV Video Music Awards were held on August 30, 2020, in New York City. Keke Palmer hosted the ceremony. Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande were the most nominated acts, with nine each, and Gaga received the first-ever MTV Tricon award. Nominees for Push Best New Artist were revealed on July 23, 2020, and other categories were announced on July 30. Fan voting began on July 30 and ended on August 23. The show was dedicated to Chadwick Boseman, who died of colon cancer two days before the ceremony.
The awards were originally scheduled to be held at Barclays Center for the first time since 2013. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was expected to be held with "limited or no audience", as one of the first major indoor events to be held in the city since the onset of the pandemic in the state, with MTV also announcing plans for the show to "[span] all five boroughs" to "pay homage to the strength, spirit and incredible resilience of NYC and its beloved residents". MTV eventually scrapped the indoor component of the ceremony at Barclays Center after "close consultation with state and local health officials" and announced that it would be conducted in an outdoor format across the city; the Center will host the 2021 show instead. The awards were also simulcast live by ViacomCBS half-sister network The CW, marking the first time since 2015 (when MTV2's last over-the-air affiliate contract ended) that the ceremony has aired on broadcast television, but the first time it was purposefully promoted as such.
White Carpet
- Coat by Area, a bracelet and a bangle by Dena Kemp, a custom necklace by Edward Avedis, and boots by Pleaser.
Best Collaboration
Acceptance:
- "Thank you so much. Thank you, thank you, MTV. I... This means the world. Ariana and I really connected through this song. Thank you, Jaden, for giving us this award tonight. Thank you, MTV. Thank you to all our fans. Me and Ariana are truly soul sisters. And you know... Girl, this is for us. We have both been through some shit together but we were willing to share it with each other and Ari I love you. I feel like, when we were in the studio, we turned our tears that felt like endless rainfall into diamonds. I will treasure those diamonds with you forever, honey. I love you. I love you, Little Monsters. All the Arianators, you rock. Thank you, MTV."
- Custom dress by Iris van Herpen, custom mask by Cecilio Castrillo, and boots by Pleaser.
Song of the Year
Acceptance:
- "Oh, my gosh. Everybody, thank you. Thank you so, so much. Me and Ariana appreciate this so much. I remember when I wrote the lyrics for the chorus and I sang them for my producer and collaborator, Blood Pop, and the lyrics were 'I'd rather be dry but at least I'm alive. Rain on me'. I remember thinking I had cried so many tears that it felt like unfathomable downpour from my eyes but even with that much rain, you don't have to drown, even though it feels like you are [drowning]. You can still swim. And if there's a strong current with a bunch of waves and they keep crashing over you, if you keep swimming, you'll reach the center of the ocean, where it's calm, still, and peaceful. May God bless you. I'm very honored at the awards I had been nominated for this evening but I have to say, winning for Best Song [Song of the Year] has to be my favorite because at the end of the day my heart is as a songwriter. I surely didn't ask for a free ride. Thank you. Love you, MTV. Thank you to the fans. Love you Monsters."
- Blouse and a skirt by Christopher John Rogers, mask by Lance Victor Moore, earrings by Dena Kemp, rings by Lillian Shalom, a bangle by German Kabirski, necklace by House of Emmanuele, and boots by Pleaser.
Artist of the Year
Acceptance:
- "Oh, my gosh! This is so exciting. Thank you so much. Being an artist is the only thing I've ever wanted to be in my whole life. I never wanted to be anything else. I remember when I first came to California after I built this small following for myself in New York, I would be taken out to these fancy dinners with executives who wanted to sign me. And I remember I never ever ordered anything more than a whiskey neat or a large sake if we were at a Japanese spot. And I remember that they used to ask me, ‘hey LG, why aren’t you eating?’ And I said because I didn’t come for the California roll. Everyone always knew if they were hanging out with me that I was on a mission to spread joy through culture, through dance, through music. I've written music my whole life and I feel so honored that I get to do this every day. And thank you so much for this award. During a year that I am promoting Chromatica, my record. An album that is a diary of a very dark time in my head, and it’s brought me so much joy to see that you can spin your struggles into gold and you just gotta believe in yourself, and you gotta surround yourself with good people. I surround myself with my family, they are here, my family. I love you! If you want to win an award like this, don't eat the California roll so that they know you mean business. I love you. Thank you MTV! Thank you, fans! I love you! You are the best!"
- Catsuit and coat by Valentino, boots by Pleaser, custom mask by Maison Met, and jewelry by Dena Kemp.
MTV Tricon Award
Acceptance:
- "Oh, my gosh. Guys, this is so cool. This means a lot to me. It means more to me than you probably even realize. I've been making music since I was a little girl, and even though I had really, really big dreams, I truly never could have imagined that someday I would be given an award like this that honored me for so many of my passions. I want you to know I failed over and over again as an actress and as a musician when I was young, and though I gave back to the local community through service as a young woman in New York, philanthropy became a much bigger part of my life as a star, and I started the Born This Way Foundation with my mother Cynthia once my record broke. I want to share this award with everybody at home tonight. Everybody at home that is their own form of a Tricon. I wish for you to think right now of three things that define who you are and take a moment to reward yourself for your bravery. This has not been an easy year for a lot of people, but what I see in the world is a massive triumph of courage. I also hope that people at home that have big dreams, I hope they see me here today accepting this award and know how grateful I am, and I want you to know that you can do this, too. Just 'cause we're separated right now, and culture may feel less alive in some ways, I know a renaissance is coming. And the wrath of pop culture will inspire you. And the rage of art will empower you as it responds to hardship with its generosity and love. That is what I believe. I want nothing more than to be your artist in 2020. It's a total privilege. I love you. Stay safe, speak your mind, and I might sound like a broken record, but wear a mask: It's a sign of respect. Thank you."
- Catsuit by Valentino, choker and bra by Manuel Albarran, custom mask by Maison Met, custom face armor by Lance Victor Moore, rings by Lillian Shalom, custom coat by Candice Cuoco, and boots by Pleaser.
Press room
- T-shirt by Bravado, custom mask by Michael Ngo, and boots by Pleaser.
Performance
- Setlist
- Intro (Announcement of performance on TV)
- "Chromatica II" (VMA Version)
- "911" (Shortened version) - (Verse 1, Pre-Chorus, and Chorus)
- "Rain On Me" (with Ariana Grande) (VMA Version)
- "Stupid Love" (Acoustic) - (Verse 1, Refrain, and Pre-Chorus (one line))
- "Stupid Love" (VMA Version) - (Verse 2, Refrain, Pre-Chorus, Chorus, and Last Chorus (one line))
- Transcription
[cheers and applause]
[Intro (Announcement of performance on TV)]
On the way, a performance by Britney Spears and NSYNC, Diana Ross, and Lady Gaga performing live from Chroma... [bleep]
[Chromatica II (VMA Version)]
[low orchestral music]
[orchestral rock music]
[cheers and applause]
[911 (Shortened version)]
[Verse 1]
Turnin' up emotional faders
Keep repeating self-hating phrases
I have heard enough of these voices
Almost like I have no choice
This is biological stasis
My mood's shifting to manic places
Wish I laughed and kept the good friendships
Watch life, here I go again
[Pre-Chorus]
I can't see me cry
Can't see me cry ever again (Ooh)
I can't see me cry
Can't see me cry, this is the end (Ooh)
[Chorus]
My biggest enemy is me, pop a 911
My biggest enemy is me, pop a 911
My biggest enemy is me ever since day one
Pop a 911, then pop another one
[Transition into Rain On Me]
What's up MTV
Let me changing real quick
[Rain On Me (with Ariana Grande) (VMA Version)]
[Verse 1: Lady Gaga]
I didn't ask for a free ride
I only asked you to show me a real good time
I never asked for the rainfall
At least I showed up, you showed me nothing at all
[Pre-Chorus: Lady Gaga]
It's coming down on me
Water like misery
It's coming down on me
I'm ready, rain on me
[Chorus: Lady Gaga]
I'd rather be dry, but at least I'm alive
Rain on me, rain, rain
Rain on me, rain, rain
I'd rather be dry, but at least I'm alive
Rain on me, rain, rain
Rain on
[Post-Chorus: Ariana Grande & Lady Gaga]
Rain on me, baby
Rain on me
[Verse 2: Ariana Grande & Lady Gaga]
Livin' in a world where no one's innocent
Oh, but at least we try, we try
Gotta live my truth, not keep it bottled in
So I don't lose my mind, baby
[Pre-Chorus: Ariana Grande & Lady Gaga]
I can feel it on my skin (It's comin' down on me)
Teardrops on my face (Water like misery)
Let it wash away my sins (It's coming down on me)
Let it wash away, yeah
[Chorus: Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande]
I'd rather be dry, but at least I'm alive
Rain on me, rain, rain
Rain on me, rain, rain
I'd rather be dry, but at least I'm alive
Baby
Rain on me, rain, rain
Rain (Rain) On (On) me
[Post-Chorus: Ariana Grande, Both]
Rain on me
Rain on me
Oh, yeah, yeah
Said
So rain on me
Oh yeah
[Bridge: Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande]
Hands up to the sky
I'll be your galaxy
I'm about to fly
Rain on me, tsunami
Hands up to the sky
MTV, MTV, uh
I'm about to fly
Rain on me
[vocalizing]
Rain on
[Outro: Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande]
I hear the thunder comin' down
Won't you rain on me?
Eh, eh, yeah
Rain (Rain) On me
[cheers and applause]
[cheers and applause continues]
[stirring piano music]
[cheers and applause]
[Stupid Love (Acoustic)]
[Verse 1]
You're the one that I've been waiting for
Gotta quit this cryin', nobody's gonna
Heal me if I don't open the door
Kinda hard to believe, gotta have faith in me
[vocalizing]
[Refrain]
Freak out, freak out, freak out (Look at me)
I get down, I get down, I get down, (Look at me)
Freak out, freak out
Look at me now
[Pre-Chorus]
'Cause all I ever wanted was love
No (Ooh-ooh)
[cheers and applause]
[Speech]
I want your love!
I want it all night, every day!
But I want you to love yourself
Tonight and every night.
Celebrate yourself!
Love who you are!
Be kind!
Mask up!
Be brave...
And braver all the time.
One!
Two!
Make it stupid!
[Stupid Love (VMA Version)]
[Chorus]
I want your stupid love, love
[electric rock music]
I want your stupid love, love
(Uh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
[Verse 2]
Now, it's time to free me from the shame
I gotta find that peace, is it too late or
Could this love protect me from the pain?
I would battle for you (Even if we break in two)
[Refrain]
Freak out, freak out, freak out, freak out (Look at me)
Get down, get down, get down, get down (Look at me)
Freak out, freak out, freak out, freak out
Look at me now
[Pre-Chorus]
'Cause all I ever wanted was love, love
All I ever wanted was love
Hey yeah, hey yeah
[Chorus]
I want your stupid love
I want your stupid love, love
(Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
Hey yeah, hey yeah
(Oh, I, I, I, I want)
Whoo!
We got a stupid love, love
(Love, love, oh, oh, oh, oh)
[cheers and applause]
- Custom bra, gloves and garters by Vex Clothing, custom mask by Diego Montoya in collaboration with Smooth Technology, Chelle Creations, and I Still Love You NYC, custom shorts by LA Roxx, tights by Capezio, and boots Ellie reworked by Andre No. 1.
- Custom bra, briefs, and leg garter by Deadly Couture, studded version of a custom bolero and glove by Vex Clothing, and boots Ellie reworked by Andre No. 1.
- Custom catsuit by BCalla embellished with crystals by Leon Schrager and Farradas Knits, custom hoop earring by Edward Avedis, used as a belt buckle by Conrad Muscarella, and boots by Saint Laurent.
Backstage
Merchandise
- Main article: Official Merchandise
Links
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